EXTENSION OF TENDER ADVERTISTMENT FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)- FOR CONSULTANCY SERVICES, TO CONDUCT AN EVALUATION FOR THE SELF-RELIANCE INDEX (SRI) At Danish Refugee Council

Tender name: Request for Proposal (RFP)- for Consultancy services, to Conduct an evaluation for the Self-Reliance Index (SRI) at DRC South Sudan

Tender Number: RFP-SSD-JUB-2021-011

Extended until 12^th November 2021

Last date for clarifications by e-mail: 8^th Nov 2021 at 9:00 AM CAT

Tender Closing Date:12^th November 2021 at 10:00 PM CAT

ORGANISATION BACKGROUND

Danish Refugee Council is a leading international humanitarian displacement organisation, supporting refugees and internally displaced persons during displacement, when settling and integrating into a new place or upon return. It provides protection and lifesaving humanitarian assistance. Support displaced persons in becoming self-reliant and included in hosting societies – and work with communities, civil society and responsible authorities to promote the protection of rights and peaceful coexistence.

Since 2005, DRC has been providing assistance to the displaced in South Sudan, with the key objective of achieving durable solutions for displaced populations affected by conflict and food insecurity. DRC implements a multi-sector response to support refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host populations, with projects and activities tailored to the needs and gaps in the local contexts. Its current programming components include protection; camp coordination and camp management (CCCM); provision of emergency and transitional shelters within and outside of camp environments; distribution of non-food items (NFIs); food security and livelihoods (FSL); Armed Violence Reduction; Demining; Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH); multi-sectoral needs studies, and rapid multi-sector emergency response.

DRC’s SSD strategic vision is in emergency and protracted displacement situations, individuals and communities are supported in addressing their basic needs, accessing services, claiming their rights, and having the skills and capacity to develop their informed solutions to achieve self-reliance in a safe, peaceful and dignified manner.

DRC in Jamjang

According to the latest UNHCR registration (August 2021), the Jamjang area in northern Unity hosts 123,910, an increase from 118,891 (May 2020) refugees from South Khordofan/Nuba mountains (south part of Sudan bordering South Sudan) in two refugee camps: Ajuong Thok, established in 2013 and Pamir, established in 2016, together with the spontaneous refugee settlement in Yida, which is located in the Jau County near the border with Sudan. The refugee population of Ajuong Thok is 44,782, Pamir is 42,229, and Yida settlement 36,899. Women continue to comprise the majority of the refugee population (54%), with most of the household’s femaleheaded in all three locations, as the majority of males remain in their area of origin.

The limited development support, lack of essential services and infrastructure in the refugee-hosting area of Jamjang, coupled with unstable conditions and lack of services in the refugees’ areas of origin, suggest that refugees will continue to rely on lifesaving humanitarian assistance together with strong social cohesion initiatives to ensure peaceful coexistence with host communities.

DRC operates in both Ajuong Thok and Pamir refugee camps in the Jamjang area, offering Camp Management and CommunityBased Protection activities, working towards a more empowered and representative community structure that ensures the meaningful participation of women and youth minority groups in camp governance. At the same time, DRC strengthens its community-based approach to engage thematic committees, mainly women, youth, older persons and block leaders, in mobilising other refugees to provide community support to the PSN. Moreover, DRC provides emergency shelter to all new arrivals, constructs transitional shelters for PWSN and supports beneficiaries who have raised walling with technical guidance and roofing interventions. DRC Food Security & Livelihoods activities in Jamjang focus on environmental protection and development for community resource generation and Vocational skills training, life skills, and business skills training programs to strengthen people’s capacities for self-resilience and income-generating opportunities. Moreover, DRC has been managing the woodlot and orchard in Yida since 2017. UNHCR initially established both the orchards and woodlots (through CARE international, which was the implementing partner at the time); the assets were handed over to DRC in 2017.

DRC in Bentiu

According to IOM DTM, the Bentiu IDP camp population stands at 100,051 individuals (15,554 households) in 12,028 inhabited shelters (on average, 8 individuals per shelter)^[1]. The prolonged conflict mainly prompts the high number of internally displaced persons and inter and intra-communal clashes, which are the main drivers of displacement in Unity State. Other IDPs have sought refuge in collective centres within the host communities of Rubkona, Guit, Koch and, Mayom where DRC is operational. In 2019, a reported 32,638 individual refugee returnees arrived in Rubkona from Sudan, which has exerted more pressure on the limited resources in the host communities. The IDPs, host and returnees’ populations continued need of increasing humanitarian assistance, including; food, non-food items, health, sanitation and protection services. Much like any large-scale displacement context, there are growing issues surrounding housing, land and property, following the most recent displacements. The duty bearers are capitalising on the newfound control over land rights and influencing population movements. The capacity of the populations to withstand shocks is limited as they lost their assets, face adverse macroeconomic conditions, markets have been disrupted, and have low agricultural production. The combination of the above factors/drivers resulted in the high mobility of the population within the IDP Camp and the counties in search of better services and livelihoods.

In Bentiu, DRC offers Food Security & Livelihoods activities to foster increased household and community-owned food production to promote self-reliance and local market-driven oriented IGAs to increase households’ incomes. Further, it aims to strengthen community structures and capacities to be critical drivers in implementing Disaster Risk Reduction activities such as flooding. By enhancing local self-management capacities and advocating for initiatives that promote and contribute to sustained self-reliance, DRC Camp Coordination and Camp Management, promotes a people-centred and needs-based response, ensuring equitable and safe access of populations affected by displacement to a standardised, coordinated and monitored assistance.

Further, DRC promotes General Protection and prevention of GBV through an ongoing and strengthened advocating with Government, humanitarian organisations and Community-based structures local duty bearers to support safe, dignified and appropriate solutions and to enable people to claim their rights increase the participation of women in different social, political and economic activities. Through a strengthened and quipped, well-resourced field-based delivery implementation of quality survivor centred, DRC focuses on keeping women and girls safe, promoting their dignity and protecting their rights.

DRC in Aburoc

DRC has operated in Upper Nile since 2014, with programmes covering Fashoda and the West Bank of River Nile. Upper Nile has been a hotbed of protracted conflict. Conflict, Housing, Land and Property (HLP) rights, unemployment among youths, prolonged dry spells and heavy rains make the operational context challenging. Despite the above, DRC in Upper Nile has maintained a significant impact across the functional areas of Malakal, Fashoda and for the last three years in, Baliet and Panyikang Counties. Consistent funding has allowed a deepening of DRC’s footprint in serving the vulnerable and internally displaced populations in the sectors of Camp Coordination and Camp Management, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, Protection, Shelter and DDG.

The population composition in Aburoc is diverse, with some residents coming from areas such as Wau Shilluk, Kodok, Lul, Panyikang County, Malakal PoC, Manyo County and Tonga. The Shilluk tribe is the predominant one in the settlement; thus, cultural dynamics are limited. This is a positive factor in making the place safe and conducive for the residents. While the population figures are relatively low, i.e. less than 10,000 people, Aburoc settlement is diverse with IDPs, host communities, returnees, and Persons

with Specific Needs (PSNs). The population demographics show that the population is characterised by a substantial proportion of vulnerable groups and as women (23.5%) and girls (27.6%).

A majority of the civilians who moved to Aburoc are most vulnerable, and those who could not move including families with children, the elderly and the sick. These have therefore become residual populations in that they have no intentions of leaving the settlement. DRC offers camp coordination and camp management (CCCM) services, provides shelter materials, and does protection monitoring. WFP provides general food distributions to the beneficiaries. DRC’s mandate is to ensure that arrivals who come to Aburoc for the first time have their basic needs met.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SELF RELIANCE INDEX

According to Refuge Point, Self-reliance is the social and economic ability of an individual, a household or a community to meet its essential needs in a sustainable manner.

The Self-Reliance Index (SRI) is a scored survey tool for measuring the progress of refugee households toward self-reliance over time. It is primarily intended to support practitioners in designing and providing effective refugee services in countries of first asylum. It may also assist in targeting populations for assistance, highlighting service gaps, and informing funding priorities. The SRI was developed through a three-year multi-stakeholder process involving over 25 contributing partners, including NGOs, UNHCR, research entities, foundations, and government agencies. The SRI was designed to fill a critical gap in enhancing self reliance opportunities for refugees by providing a quickly administered, high-level Study of fundamental status changes for refugee households. It is expected to evolve and improve as it is increasingly used to support refugees worldwide to rebuild their lives. The Refugee Self-Reliance Initiative was launched and is co-led by Refuge Point and the Women’s Refugee Commission.

The SRI is designed with simplicity in mind to provide a quick, high-level indication of key status changes within a refugee household across twelve domains associated with socio-economic inclusion: Housing, Food, Education, Healthcare, Health Status, Safety, Employment, Financial Resources, Assistance, Debt, Savings and Social Capital.

STUDY BACKGROUND

In South Sudan, DRC is piloting the use of SRI in its operational areas of Jamjang, Bentiu 2020 and Aburoc locations. The study started in 2020 with Bentiu and Jamjang, and later in 2021, Aburoc was added. The twofold purpose of the study is to identify gaps within the target communities. This will lead to “solutions-focused” programming and the other purpose being for measurement purposes, with a focus on the sectors (CCCM and FSL) that DRC is implementing in the target locations. DRC is the first organisation to roll out the SRI; hence the study also aims to inform different organisations on the relevance of the SRI tool in South Sudan. The study runs from October 2020 up to December 2021, and data is collected every 6 months^[2]. At the end of 2021, a detailed analysis of the gathered data will be conducted, informing the next phase of the study. Hence, the overall objective of this consultancy is to direct the last data collection, conduct a detailed and triangulated analysis that will inform DRC and relevant partners, including RefugePoint the relevance of the SRI tool into assessing programme impact on the lives of the beneficiaries/ target communities, measure targeted populations, self-reliance and derive lessons learned and critical recommendations for the study next phase.

Objectives

Specifically, key objectives of the SRI Study:

To pilot and learn from the SRI in a ‘solutions-focused lens and share the results widely within the South Sudan humanitarian community.

To test the tool suitability in IDP and camp-based refugees’ settings and from the results recommend it to other agencies to measure the contribution of their programming towards the self-reliance of the community they serve.

To measure the impact of DRC’s programming in different domains, i.e. refugee, IDP & host community settings.

To measure the impact of DRC’s sector programmes in the target locations, e.g. in Bentiu, CCCM. Livelihoods, Protection and SGBV, are the active DRC sectors in the targeted communities, whilst in Jamjang Livelihoods, CCCM & Shelter are the DRC active sectors in the targeted camps.

To document lessons learned from the whole piloting process and possibly provide recommendations to other partner organisations.

Study Questions

The study seeks to answer the following questions:

1. How far has DRC programming impacted the different target groups, i.e. refugees, IDPs & host communities?
2. What are the gaps within the target groups? These gaps will be critically analysed using the SRI 12 domains^[3].
3. What are the needs of the target groups that are being met, and which sectors might have contributed to achieving these needs? Detailed cross-tabulations with the DRC’s sectors will be done to assess the effect/ impact of each sector.
4. What can be recommended to improve the socio-economic well-being of the target population?
5. What external factors (outside DRC’s assistance) could have contributed to the increase or decrease in the SRI score?

CONSULTANCY ROLE

The consultancy specific role is to oversee and lead the last round of data collection in the study. DRC will provide background information of the study and give access to the previous data to the consultant. Furthermore, the consultancy will produce a detailed analysis of the study and a comparative analysis between the different locations, intervals of data collection, and other critical factors as the methodology stipulate. The consultancy with DRC will document the achievements of the study in achieving its objectives, the challenges faced administering the study, and the lessons learned. After a careful and in-depth analysis of the data and generated evidence, the consultant will advise on the tool’s suitability in the South Sudan context, i.e. IDPs and camp based refugees’ settings. To finalise the task, the consultant will facilitate a learning session for interested partners and DRC staff in Juba.

METHODOLOGY

The study has employed a mixed-methods approach combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The standard SRI data collection tool has been used for data collection, and the tool has questions that cover the SRI 12 domains. The qualitative element validates and supports the quantitative findings, which has been a part of the questionnaire; however, FGDs and KIIs will be added in the last rounds of data collection, led by the consultancy. Data collection has been done through household visits and has targeted the household heads or someone who has adequate knowledge of the household.

The study used the comparison group design, and participants were categorised into different groups to assess the effectiveness of DRC programming to the target beneficiaries.

Table 1: Study comparison factors

Comparison factor

Comment

Beneficiary residence status

Data is collected from refugees, IDPs and the host communities. A comparison will be made on how DRC programming impacted the 3 groups of beneficiaries.

Location of the beneficiary

Data is collected from different locations where DRC is currently operating. In 2020, Jamjang and Bentiu started as the pilot locations for the study, and in 2021, Aburoc was added to the study.

DRC programming sectors

Data on two DRC sectors (CCCM and FSL) benefiting the beneficiary will be collected. This aims to show which sectors have impacted more the beneficiaries and identify the gaps that still need to be addressed per each sector.

Sampling Framework

The study uses a representative sample size of the targeted population to draw statistically valid conclusions of the household’s self reliance status and provide evidence-based data for the gaps identified. Since the assessment targets households benefiting from DRC activities, the overall number of beneficiaries reached in each location determines the number of households participating in the study.

Furthermore, the study entails a multi-stage sampling that contains two or more sampling methods. In this situation, to ensure every member has an equal chance of selection, convenience sampling was used to register all the individuals who are willing to be included in the study and are static in their respective areas. After registration, the sample size was randomly drawn from the beneficiaries list depending on the comparison factors in table 1.

The data collection has been done concurrently on 7-days consecutively in each of the locations. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines, the enumerators will follow COVID-19 guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus, such as social distancing between them and the respondents, wearing face masks; and limiting exposure, only a few respondents will be interviewed by each enumerator per day. Beneficiaries will be interviewed in their households.

SCOPE OF THE EVALUATION

Scope of consultancy

The consultancy will build on the existing evaluation methodology based on their understanding of the expectations of the terms of reference to sufficiently address the critical dimensions and questions raised above. Due to the COVID-19 restriction, only one member (this depends on the feasibility of travel arrangements due to Covid-19) of the consultancy will come to the country to undertake the data collection exercise. Primary data collection will be conducted in the three locations, i.e. Ajuong Thok, Bentiu and Aburoc locations. The Consultant is expected to propose their methodology for the evaluation that should include but not limited to:

• Draft complementary to the SRI data collection tools
• Quantitative data analysis plan
• Qualitative data analysis plan
• Secondary data collection and analysis
• Production of the entire study report, a summarised report and a PowerPoint presentation
• Participate in the report’s initial sharing and validation meeting to DRC/ stakeholders and incorporate their feedback. The consultant should submit a detailed action plan that includes a data collection plan, clear roles and responsibilities, timeframe, data analysis, and report writing.

Key Deliverables/Outputs

The Consultant shall be expected to produce an inception report upon commencement of the evaluation.

1. Inception Report will detail the agreed-upon methodologies to be employed in the evaluation to achieve the objectives outlined above. The Inception Report should also include the finalised activity plan and a structural outline of the final study report. The inception report should be shared and approved by DRC before the data collection and analysis commencement. The Inception report should contain a detailed methodology for implementation, schedule for the programme review, draft additional tools and a work plan that sets out the preparatory activities and specific deliverables and timeline related to the evaluation.
2. Study Report: The report should address the above consultancy objectives and contain an executive summary, acknowledgements, introduction including programme summary and purpose of the study; a detailed methodology (including limitations); key findings (covering both document review and primary research), lessons learnt, evidence-based recommendations, conclusion and annexes. Annexes should include, at a minimum: the consultant’s expression of interest, the evaluation budget, field sites assessed, and a list of key informants. A soft copy of the report will be shared with the MEAL Manager/Specialist, and the report should not be more than 40 pages, excluding the cover page and annexes.

Evaluation Brief as an executive (using DRC Format: 5 pages in length that summarises crucial points, purpose and background, study questions, methods, findings, and conclusions)

Presentation – PowerPoint on crucial study results and recommendations to DRC South Sudan and relevant stakeholders. The deliverables above will be accompanied by regular communication and feedback with the Programme Team and a validation workshop where the study’s preliminary results will be presented to DRC. After incorporating comments from the validation workshop, the report will be delivered to DRC’s MEAL Manager/Specialist.

Intended Users

The intended users for the study will be in particular:

The sector teams, especially CCCM and FSL Teams.

All interested parties in DRC, including programme management team, technical and non-technical staff; DRC Senior Management Team, Technical Coordinators, MEAL Department, Head of Programme and the Country Director.

The humanitarian cluster teams and all humanitarian agencies in South Sudan, working towards the same goals and objectives. Refuge Point as the designer and owner of the SRI tool.

Representatives of DANIDA, BHA, ECHO and UNHCR as the donors that has funded the study.

EVALUATION KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

DRC’s Responsibilities

DRC will provide logistical and accommodation support to the consultant while in South Sudan and field location. As the impact of COVID-19, the evaluation will be conducted remotely with only one member of the consultancy team coming into the country to facilitate the data collection process.

Provide ongoing security advice and support when travelling to the field.

Facilitate engagement with the community and key stakeholders.

Provide all necessary programme and study documents and contacts of relevant stakeholders in other I/NGOs and the community.

DRC will also review the consultant’s proposal, tools and evaluation report.

The payments will be made once after the submission of the final accepted and approved report to DRC.

The Consultant:

The consultant will be responsible for the entire evaluation process, including travel and permit applications, evaluation preparation, data collection, and report writing.

The consultant will be responsible for the payment of any tax or other fees related to this assignment.

The consultant is responsible for their working tools such as computer and data analysis software.

Submit a technical proposal with a tentative budget on or before 12th November 2021. The cost of the evaluation should be summarised as follows with a detailed breakdown below:

No Details Unit Rate (USD) Number of Units(Quantity) Cost (USD)
1.Consultant’s fees (without data enumerators’ costs)
2.Transport cost (international flights only)

1. Subsistence costs (e.g., communication, meals, etc.)

4.Any other costs that are critical but not provided for by DRC

Reporting Arrangements

The consultant will report to the MEAL Manager but close collaboration with the MEAL Specialist/Coordinator who leads evaluations.

Duration of assignment

The consultancy should not last more than 40 working days, excluding weekends. A minimum of two weeks should be reserved for field research (if conditions allow).

Expected Profile of the Consultant

• A postgraduate qualification in Monitoring and Evaluation, Research, Statistics or any other related field is required. A qualification in Food Security and Livelihoods, Social Sciences or other related disciplines is also strongly required.
• An additional qualification/ experience in FSL and Camp Management will be an added advantage.
• Significant experience in carrying out evaluations in South Sudan or EAGL region.
• Strong understanding of the South Sudan contexts, particularly around issues related to conflict, resilience, livelihoods, the humanitarian principles and system, protection risks. Direct field experience in the country is a significant advantage.
• Demonstrate strong capacity to conduct quantitative data research and analysis with additional experience in questionnaire development, interview techniques and managing focus group discussions.
• Strong skills in qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
• Experience in using mobile data collection systems such as KoBoCollect will be an added advantage.
• Willingness and ability to travel to South Sudan or other field locations should the conditions allow for it. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, the consultant should be fully vaccinated to allow easy movement within the country.
• Excellent organising, facilitating, presentation and communication skills, including good report writing in English.

Terms and Conditions

The consultant must abide by all DRC’s standard procedures, including the Code of Conduct and confidentiality policies. All data and information collected, any reports, and the study’s methodology will be the property of DRC. Furthermore, the consultant will not delegate or hire an external party to come into the country or conduct the field visits.